The European Union has adopted the 16th package of sanctions against Russia, expanding the list of companies and individuals hit by the restrictions. According to an official document published on the EUR-Lex portal, the sanctions affected a number of companies that, according to the EU, contribute to circumventing previously imposed restrictions and support the Russian military-industrial complex.

Among the companies on the sanctions list are companies registered in Kyrgyzstan. In particular, Muller Markt and Profflab - companies that allegedly supplied technology and dual-use products to promote the development of the Russian defense sector.

According to the Ministry of Justice, Muller Markt was registered in the Kyrgyz Republic in May 2022, while Profflab was registered in March of the same year. Both companies were established with foreign participation and are engaged in wholesale non-specialized trade.

In addition, the EU has expanded the list of goods and technologies banned for export to Russia, as well as strengthened control over transit shipments through third countries. Additional restrictions were imposed on imports of Russian products, including aluminum and components for the aviation industry.

The inclusion of Kyrgyz companies in the sanctions list signals Brussels' growing attention to possible schemes to circumvent restrictions through the Eurasian Economic Union states. European regulators say they will continue to monitor trade flows in order to stop the supply of prohibited products to Russia.